What Nicky Hayen really thinks about joining Celtic

14 2 minutes read

In an early boost for Celtic, Club Brugge boss Nicky Hain is said to be open to replacing Brendan Rodgers in Scotland, as the Bhoys intensify their pursuit of their next manager.

Those in Glasgow were thrown into disarray when Rodgers resigned and majority shareholder Dermot Desmond had his say in brutal fashion on Monday night. Since then, a number of potential candidates have already been mentioned and veteran manager Martin O’Neill enjoyed his first win as interim manager.

After beating Falkirk 4-0 to return to winning ways in the Scottish Premiership, O’Neill told reporters: “I’m really happy to win the game the way we played, we played some exciting things. We could have scored more goals too.

“Hopefully some of the players who played today will be old enough to know who I am, and some of the younger players I won’t be quite sure. They see this guy walking into the dressing room and think ‘what’s going on here?’

“I’m happy and satisfied because I thought we played very well. My anxiety calmed down somewhat, and it was really good to win. When you score a few goals up front, maybe you can enjoy the last 10 or 15 minutes, and that kind of brought me back.”

Sadly, the Northern Irishman will know better than most that the real test awaits him this weekend when he takes on Celtic Rangers in the Old Firm derby. With a place in the Scottish League Cup Final under their belt, the Bhoys must be desperate to get the better of their rivals.

Meanwhile, as events continue on the pitch, Celtic’s managerial search continues. So far, Parkhead chiefs have drawn up a shortlist that includes Craig Bellamy, Robbie Keane and Club Brugge boss Hein among others.

Nicky Hayne is now open to becoming Celtic coach

As reported by Belgian newspaper Nieuwslabd, Celtic now have a tangible interest in Hayen and are getting serious about the Brugge manager, who is also open to a move elsewhere.

The report claims that Bhoi’s family will have to pay a hefty compensation fee if they bet on the 45-year-old, but he may prove to be worth every penny.

“I’ve played for a fair number of clubs and don’t have an ultimate goal. Although of course I’d like to take the next step abroad at some stage.

“If there is interest, I will always tell Club Brugge. We are fair to each other. I know I am on the lists, but everything has to be okay.” (Heine on leaving Bruges)

Having drawn Celtic 1-1 in the Champions League last year before thrashing Rangers 9-1 in the qualifiers in August, Glasgow must already know all about Hayne’s quality.

However, it remains to be seen whether Celtic decide to go ahead and secure his arrival or not. He’s certainly a strong candidate for the job, but he’s not the only name in the race to replace Rodgers.